Russian Rocket Fuel is a diesel-scented strain that delivers a powerful and well-balanced high. Rather than Russia, it originates from Short Stuff Seedbank, which is based in Spain. This hybrid is derived from the genetics of NYC Diesel and has inherited the complex flavor profile of its parent strain. It’s also a user-friendly grow that rewards patient gardeners with large, chunky flowers. Russian Rocket Fuel’s THC content has been measured at between 20% and 29%.

When trimmed, flowers of Russian Rocket Fuel are medium to large in size and adhere in an elongated shape reminiscent of miniature cypress trees. The buds have the same wispy, fluffy appearance associated with traditionally sativa-dominant strains and are composed of relatively long and thin leaves. The leaves themselves are a muted shade of olive green and are shot through with dark brown pistils. A crown of icy white trichomes finishes off these ragged-looking buds.

When properly cured, Russian Rocket Fuel’s flowers are marked by a rich, earthy scent that comes with a bit of a peppery kick. A closer inspection may also pick up on some astringent fumes of diesel. When it is broken apart or ground up, this skunky gasoline funk may intensify; when combusted, it burns with a heavy smoke that’s liable to trigger a coughing fit for the uninitiated. On the exhale, this thick smoke has an herbal and slightly fruity flavor.

Unlike many other indica-dominant strains, Russian Rocket Fuel begins affecting its users rather quickly. Sometimes before they’ve even finished coughing on its heavy smoke, consumers find themselves shot into a new orbit of elevated thinking. Ideas that might not otherwise seem to hold any weight may suddenly seem fascinating. Additionally, smokers may find their thoughts careening from one to the next in a kind of free association. As a result, Russian Rocket Fuel can set the stage for inspired creative thinking as well as more disciplined, analytical work. Alternatively, consumers can simply enjoy the hybrid’s steady mental buzz as they go about their otherwise mundane agenda. In some cases, Russian Rocket Fuel may also result in some sensory distortion, creating a psychedelic edge that can be amplified by a moody playlist or a trippy movie.

After an hour or so (or even sooner, if dosage is increased), Russian Rocket Fuel begins to unleash some of its physical effects. Waves of relaxation may begin to roll down the neck and radiate outward through the core and limbs, leading to a feeling of heaviness. This newfound sedation exists alongside the strain’s earlier mental effects and can serve to make certain activities -- like playing board games or dancing -- more enjoyable. In the right set and setting and given the right company, Russian Rocket Fuel can even be a potent aphrodisiac. Because its gradually steps down into sleepiness, this strain is recommended for late afternoon or early evening use.

Russian Rocket Fuel can also have several uses for medical cannabis patients. Its initially cerebral mood can help those with attention deficit disorders to sustain focus on one task at a time. Additionally, its upbeat mood can temporarily improve the difficult symptoms of stress and depression. On the physical end of the spectrum, Russian Rocket Fuel relieve aches and pains, whether they’re temporary, as due to injury, or chronic, as due to conditions like fibromyalgia or arthritis. Anti-inflammatory properties, meanwhile, may take the sting out of everyday irritations like cramps and headaches. Because it comes with some risk of obsessive, recursive thinking, Russian Rocket Fuel is not recommended for patients who are prone to paranoia or who have a low tolerance for THC.

Those looking to grow Russian Rocket Fuel at home can easily purchase seeds of the strain online. Once obtained, it can be grown indoors or out, although successful outdoor cultivation calls for a semi-humid, Mediterranean-like climate. Plants tend to grow short and bushy and rarely exceed two to three feet in height; gardeners may need to occasionally “top” their crops by trimming away any broad fan leaves. This strain takes a relatively long 10 to 11 weeks before reaching maturity. At harvest time, it offers 18 to 32 grams of flower per plant.

With high THC levels and a memorable diesel aroma, Russian Rocket Fuel is sure to impress cannabis newbies and veterans alike. Its versatile effects are right at home in a variety of situations.